aphrodisiac

This page is about the eponym aphrodisiac

Meaning

a food or other substance that triggers sexual arousal or makes sexual encounters more pleasurable

For example

  • Oysters are a well-known aphrodisiac.

  • If you're looking for an aphrodisiac, try dark chocolate.

Origin: Aphrodite was the ancient Greek goddess of love, beauty and pleasure (the equivalent of the Roman goddess Venus). In Greek mythology, she was born from the foam of the sea (aphros) after Uranus's genitals were thrown into the sea by Cronus. Zeus married her off quickly because he thought the gods would fight over her, but she was irresistible, and loved by gods and mortals.

Quick Quiz

Which of the following is true of an aphrodisiac?

a. It is from Greece.

b. It improves one's appearance.

c. It is something you consume.
a) It is from Greece. b) It improves one's appearance. c) It is something you consume.

Contributor: Tara Benwell